A devastating fire at the Aleshinloye market in Ibadan, Oyo State, has ravaged over 70 shops, leaving traders facing significant losses. The incident occurred around 10:15 PM on Tuesday in the Ibadan South West Local Government Area, leaving many unable to fully assess the extent of the damage as they wake up to the aftermath.
One trader, Balikis, shared her distress, stating she lost “over ten shops and goods worth several millions of naira to the inferno.” The fire reportedly began in two shops before spreading uncontrollably to others. Balikis lamented, “Efforts to curtail the spread of the fire proved abortive. Men of the Fire Service arrived late and reported inadequate tools, especially tanker trucks. The toll could have been minimized if they had acted sooner.”
Another victim recounted hearing about the fire through a local radio station and rushing to the scene. Despite the efforts of the fire brigades, the flames wreaked havoc on the market.
In response to the disaster, Oyo State’s Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, visited the market to assess the damage and described the incident as “unfortunate.” He announced an immediate preliminary investigation and ordered logistical support for the affected traders. Lawal assured that the government would provide palliatives to the victims through the State Emergency Management Agency and the National Emergency Management Agency.
The Babaloja of the state, Yekeen Abass, also spoke on the government’s commitment to support the traders, assuring them that Governor Seyi Makinde is attentive to their plight and will respond favorably.
As traders begin to calculate their losses, they are calling for urgent assistance, emphasizing that many are burdened with loans and now face severe financial hardship due to the fire’s destruction. The community is rallying to seek immediate support from the government to help the victims rebuild their livelihoods.
